FAQ

Frequently asked questions and answers

Frequently asked questions and answers

1. Why do the pass predictions change from day to day?

The further the predicted ISS passes are in the future, the less accurate the predictions are. Since the orbital data is updated daily, the schedule may change slightly. Even the number of passes may change.

2. Is the ground view real-time video?

No. The current position of the ISS is displayed on maps derived by NASA from images taken by satellites, which is not real-time video. That is why you see the floor of the oceans and no clouds. However, the current position of the space station is real-time.On board the ISS is a live web cam.

3. Is it the floor of the ocean that I see on the ground view when the ISS flies over the ocean?

Yes. The floor of the ocean is displayed like the satellite images have been processed by NASA.

4. Does the ISS website use cookies?

Yes. When you enter your location, it will be stored in a cookie on your computer. The next time you visit the website, your location will already be set for you.

5. Is the ISS completely assembled? How big is it? What does it weigh?

The ground track is related to the next orbit which takes about 93 minutes. During that time the earth rotates below the ISS's orbit. That is why the ground track appears shifted westwards by about 23 degrees every orbit.